Sure, it’d be easy to go with a safer pick, but if Filipe proved anything last year, the conventional type of surfing at J-Bay has been thrown out the window (conditions permitting).

Goofyfoot Italo Ferreira could take the title race lead with a J-Bay win, but last time a goofy won a ‘CT event at J-Bay was… it’s been a while, like 30 years.

I’m a little scared to choose him lest he pull out of yet another contest last minute, but let’s go with Slater. We haven’t seen him in a jersey (well, besides during the Founders’ Cup) since last year’s Pipe Masters, and I’m guessing he’s itching for a dramatic, trophy-hoisting return.

However, with a promising forecast, a close three-way race for the yellow jersey for the men and nearly tied two-way race for the women, the Corona Open J-Bay is poised to entertain.

Honestly I think the only thing better than watching Steph draw clean, beautiful lines out at Snapper Rocks, might be Steph draw clean, beautiful lines down the point at J-Bay.